emeteries are much more than
places of eternal rest. They represent
a profound dialogue between life and
death, a sacred space where essential
human rituals for our harmony and
well-being find their purpose. They
significantly contribute to the pursuit
of happiness by honouring existence
and
validating
grief
as
a natural
and
legitimate
emotion.
In
these
sanctuaries,
we
share,
celebrate,
and reflect on life and death, gaining
a deeper understanding of our own
journey and learning to appreciate the
beauty of existence.
Today,
more
than
ever,
cemeteries
play
a crucial role in promoting sustainability and
well-being, in perfect harmony with the United
Nations
Sustainable
Development
Goals
(SDGs). Traditionally, cemeteries have posed
environmental challenges, particularly in terms of
energy consumption required for the maintenance
of green areas and monuments, along with the
use of natural resources. However, in recent
times, we have witnessed a shift toward more
sustainable funeral practices and the creation of
neocemeteries or cemeteries of the future that
seek to reduce their environmental impact.
We are talking to Nuria Capdevila, Founder
& CEO Circle Corporation (Spain) about new
paradigm for cemeteries.
KATARZYNA SUPA: In some countries, we
consider a sustainable cemetery to be one that
segregates waste and encourages families of the
deceased to purchase candles in moderation, to
reach for reusable or electric candles, and to
decorate graves with fresh flowers rather than
artificial ones. I understand that this is just
a drop in the ocean of the concept of sustainable
cemeteries and we should go much further?
What should we understand as a Sustainable
Cemetery?
NURIA CAPDEVILA: The concept of a sustainable
cemetery is gaining interest worldwide. From my
perspective, an ideal cemetery should be people-
centred, sustainable, resilient, hyper-efficient,
and circular, with a legacy that is restorative
and regenerative. While it may seem utopian at
present, I am convinced that the time will come
when this vision materializes, following the trend
already observed in many European cities and
around the world.
It is true that we are witnessing a growing diversity of
options and funeral rituals available to families. From
EXPLORING
SUSTAINABILITY
IN CEMETERIES
NEW PARADIGM
Interviewer: Katarzyna Supa
Photo: private archive
28
No. 104 – WINTER 2023 | THANOS MAGAZINE
SUSTAINABILITY